We love dogs … but the area surrounding Diamond Valley Lake is a wildlife refuge (Southwestern Riverside County Multi-Species Reserve) which legally requires a no dogs policy. Thank you for your understanding.

Diamond Valley Lake (also known as The Diamond), located in Hemet is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in Southern California with a capacity of 800,000 acre feet, 260 ft deep and with over 4,500 surface acres.

Monster Sized Fish

At The Diamond, you will discover some of the best fishing in the state. World-renowned for its black bass fishing, we are home to bluegill and redear sunfish, rainbow trout, and both blue and channel catfish. The Diamond attracts fisherman from all over the world ready and willing to test their skills against monster sized fish in these waters. Will you be remembered as a record-breaking Diamond Master?

An Important Water Resource

This reservoir is an important component to providing water for 18 million Southern Californians, and is a critical lifeline in times of drought.

To protect this resource, no body contact with the water is permitted. However, the Diamond Valley Aquatic Center, located near the entrance to the lake, allows for plenty of fun in the water. The Diamond Valley Visitor Center and the Western Science Center, which houses 1 million paleo and archaeo artifacts found during the construction of the Lake, are also located at the entrance to Diamond Valley Lake.

The Lake and the surrounding hills have also become known for the spectacular wildflower blooms each spring, and are popular among hikers. Non-motorized bicycles are also permitted on the Lake View Trail, and equestrians can enjoy the North Hills Trail.

The Cost of Inspections

There is a $3 charge for all boaters wanting a boat band upon leaving DVL. Click here (PDF) for more information.

Protect Our Waters

All vessels must be CLEAN, drained, & DRY prior to being allowed to launch at Diamond Valley Lake. This is a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY.

This policy is in place to protect the lake from destructive and costly infestations of Quagga and Zebra Mussels. Please visit our Policies section for details.